In a Split-Second

In a Split-Second

In 2016, a student in my high school died in a car crash. I still remember the shock when I heard the news; it was unbelievable that a person I saw every day in school was suddenly gone from the world. In a split-second, his dreams, aspirations, and future were taken. In a split-second, the hearts of dozens were wounded. Driving is a matter of life and death.

Driver education is crucial. Instead of memorizing road rules, you will learn the reasons behind the rules. Genuine understanding is required for you to truly be responsible on the road (and in turn, it will be easier for you to stay alert). Traffic situations vary widely and are often unpredictable. With driver’s ed, you will be aware of various traffic situations and the ways to handle them—these should never be learned on the go. It is possible to learn driving on your own, but you may develop unsafe driving habits and/or be misinformed. Frighteningly, you may never know before you get involved in an accident.

Driver education is important because you are exposed to information (regarding road safety) for longer, and this helps you remember it better. Moreover you are exposed to information of greater depth and breadth, and greater knowledge produces greater ability to recognize dangerous driving situations.

Your license is not a permit for you to drive incautiously. The granting of a license is an expression of trust in you to drive mindfully, and you must respect this. Wear your seatbelt. It only takes a few seconds, but it could make the difference of a lifetime. Never overestimate your ability to multitask. The flow of information you need to process while driving is huge; there is no room for unnecessary multitasking. Being on time for a meeting is not worth risking your life (and others’ lives). Do not fall prey to the belief that an accident can never happen to you. At all times, consider the road conditions. Consider all situations from the eyes of other drivers. Do not take any risks; it is never worth it. Keep in mind rush hours and traffic; depart early to prevent driving in a hurry.

Ensure that you are in good physical and mental condition before you drive. You must be fully focused—you may have to make a life-saving decision within the span of a split-second. Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. After all, it carries your life (and the lives of others). Self-evaluation is crucial. How can you improve your driving skills and knowledge without knowing how they are? Being aware of what can affect your driving is crucial. How can you be on guard against something you do not know? Lastly, you must be able to anticipate other drivers’ behaviour while simultaneously communicating yourself so that they can anticipate yours. Knowing all of this, it is important to educate others who may be uninformed; reducing deaths and injuries on the road is a collective effort.